Integrated stent retrieval loop adapted for snare removal and/or optimized purse stringing

Abstract

The present invention includes a braided stent and method of making the same. The braided stent has an integral retrieval and / or repositioning member. The stent includes a first open end, a second open end and a tubular body therebetween. The retrieval and / or repositioning member extends from and is interbraided into the braided tubular body. The retrieval and / or repositioning member includes an elongated portion extending from the first open end and a second section interlooping circumferentially about the first open end such that force exerted on the elongated portion causes radially contraction of the stent end and stent body.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12 / 878,125, filed Sep. 9, 2010, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 244,206, filed Sep. 21, 2009, the contents of each of which are incorporated by reference herein.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates to devices, methods and systems for retrieval and / or repositioning of an implanted stent. More particularly, the present invention relates to implantable stents having a stent retrieval member or loop for easy retrieval and / or repositioning of the implanted stent.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]An intraluminal prosthesis is a medical device used in the treatment of diseased bodily lumens. One type of intraluminal prosthesis used in the repair and / or treatment of diseases in various body vessels is a stent. A stent is a generally longitudinal tubular device formed of biocompatible material which is useful to open and...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides an implantable device, such as a stent, which has a retrieval and / or repositioning member. The device is made from elongated filaments wound or braided to form a tubular body with open ends. The retrieval and / or repositioning member is part of the device and is formed from one or more elongated filaments which interloop or close-end loops that cause the device to contract radially when force is applied to the first open end. This feature allows for easier removal or repositioning of the device after it has been placed within the body. The present invention also provides a method for making the implantable device with the retrieval and / or repositioning member.

Problems solved by technology

Prior retrieval systems, for example as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,821,291 to Bolea et al., may appear easy to use, but often are limited to a specific tool for removal and / or require certain user-sensitive techniques, such as twisting or turning in order to reposition or remove the stent.

Moreover, in smaller stents, such as biliary stents, the spacing between conventional stent segments is generally smaller than the size of standard forceps or graspers, making it even difficult to grab a portion of the stent.

Images